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Minister of State Ablonczy Successfully Concludes Participation in International Security Conference in Guatemala

Minister of State Ablonczy Successfully Concludes Participation in International Security Conference in Guatemala

(No. 179 - June 24, 2011 - 6:45 p.m. ET) The Honourable Diane Ablonczy, Minister of State of Foreign Affairs (Americas and Consular Affairs), concluded her successful visit to Guatemala where she participated in the International Conference in Support of the Central America Security Strategy from June 22 to 23, 2011.

"The conference was productive in bringing high-level political focus to the security challenges facing Central America," said Minister of State Ablonczy. "We have consensus on priorities and a plan to move forward. By sharing responsibility, the international community will continue to work closely with the countries of the region to strengthen security, which in turn can help foster greater economic and social opportunities for the people of Central America."

At the International Conference, Minister of State Ablonczy announced more than $5.2 million in contributions from Canada to support the implementation of the regional security strategy of the Central American Integration System (SICA).

In addition, she met with Guatemala’s Attorney General Claudia Paz y Paz Bailey to review ways in which Canada contributes to strengthening criminal investigation in Guatemala. Immediately after the meeting, Minister Ablonczy announced a $7.1-million contribution to strengthen the judicial and security sectors in Guatemala.

Canada’s contributions are funded by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada through the Stabilization and Reconstruction Task Force’s Global Peace and Security Fund and the Anti-Crime Capacity-Building Program.

During her visit, Minister of State Ablonczy also participated in the signing of cooperation agreements with the Ministry of Interior to support police reform and with SICA to provide technical support for institutional strengthening.